While we consider the year gone by, a selection of exceptional in-depth stories shines. These pieces delve into intricate topics from geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to deeply personal journeys.
A Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
An author became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on autocratic rule. Although several of his literary peers have faced suppression or fled the nation, he still move vast numbers of books. It poses a key query: Has he become an defender for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole route out of incarceration was to join the regime military. Following 14 years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers could still get him killed.
A Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was hailed as radically re-writing the story of our human race. However, some scholars was persuaded. The subsequent bitter argument has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the disturbing breadth of abuse it had committed.
The Statesman's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Many voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's dedication to international law. But, the record over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Identity
A film featuring a remorseful master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses thorny questions: Is she truly changed, and what are the filmmaker's true motives?
A Man Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging times, individuals rely on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Renowned Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent treatment remedy – until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideas shape the very highest echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant intellect and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that affluent clients entrusted him with their wealth. Then they started to become suspicious.
The Tiny Nation That Became the Global Mediation Capital
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a major player on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most intractable disputes. What are driving this ambitious role?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to deal with a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Global Development Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Shocking 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the sixties became public, there was immense shock. But the precise nature of what happened is still partially shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and distributed huge sums of money to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the prospect that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent question is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Sorrowful Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his life could improve. I was sadly misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he may hold the secret to which nation wins the global AI race.
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